Shrug off the rather cringe-worthy name – Trefann Court is neither a slum nor a social housing project deserving of criticism. Instead it's a community with a fascinating history that went on to shape how neighbourhood revitalization would look in Toronto's future, starting in the 1970s. And because of that history, the once lower-income neighbourhood was preserved and selectively redeveloped into a charming, well-preserved area with historic homes that blend nicely with the apartment towers that have stood here for a generation or two. That, plus decent rental rates and walkable access to the fabulous Distillery District and other awesome destinations around the east end of downtown make it a pretty cool spot to call home.

Who Lives Here

Mostly families with kids. There are few seniors and few single, working professionals. These aren't Toronto's privileged families either, as the average household income is only about $45,000 a year.

Perfect for…

Small families who will feel comfortable with apartment living, or residing in a tiny house on a small lot. Young singles or couples having a hard time meeting the demanding rents in other neighbourhoods might find refuge here too, as will seniors, but there are few residents of the oldest and young-ish demographic groups in Trefann Court.

Not-so-perfect for…

Urban, trendy and rich couples or families seeking expansive spaces and neighbours who will meet them at the country club.

Life and Style

Awesome transit and being within walking distance to the Distillery District make Trefann Court a perfect location for people who commute downtown or around Toronto's east side for work, as well as for those who like to get out for the evening and take in art, craft beers and live music. Being that Trefann Court is still mainly a lower-income neighbourhood, it's not that trendy and it's anything but posh, but an influx of young couples drawn to its great location and lower rents is beginning to change the style of the neighbourhood.

Housing Market

Rents are mostly low in Trefann Court, but landlords and property managers are seeing potential in the charm that's stuck around in the neighbourhood, leading to some houses, lofts and townhomes that are listed in the $3,500-plus range for as few as one or two bedrooms. The community is one with a mix of public housing and market housing, and prices for the latter are on the rise.

Avg. rent by housing type and size

Typical housing type

High- and low-rise apartments with some detached homes scattered throughout

Side note

Trefann Court is one of the first neighbourhoods where resident opposition put an end to the city's proposal for "revitalization" that meant slapping up a dozen or so high-rise, low-rent apartment buildings with little care for quality or style.

Neighbourhood

Trefann Court is tiny. It extends just from Queen Street East in the south to Shuter Street, one block north, and from River Street to Parliament. The streetcar runs along Queen Street and Parliament and hooks up with the subway for a quick trip downtown. For shopping, the famous St. Lawrence Market is a short walk away, as is the vibrant, industrial Distillery District. Public schools nearby include Regent Park/Duke of York and Nelson Mandela Park, plus St. Paul Elementary Catholic School.